Forget the snooze button, it’s brunch time! That’s right, Orange County’s sunshine is practically begging for an epic weekend brunch feast.
From bottomless mimosas to towering benedicts and fluffy pancake mountains, there are endless ways to indulge with friends at brunch here in the OC. Here’s where we love to gather for a delicious and laughter-filled afternoon.
Tavern at the Mission · San Juan Capistrano
Brunch is calling at Tavern at the Mission! Picture this: rustic-chic vibes with stone walls, vintage chandeliers, and comfy booths. Even the bar has a cowboy swagger, channeling the area’s equestrian history. But let’s talk food! From 11 am to 3 pm on weekends, you can devour their California-inspired menu that blends European and American flavors. Think buttermilk fried chicken and waffles that’ll blow your mind. Dine inside or soak up the sunshine on their tree-covered patio, all while raising a mimosa. And hey, with picture-perfect views of San Juan Capistrano, you might just end up with brunch pics that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.
Haute Cakes Caffe · Newport Beach
Craving classic brunch done right? Look no further than Haute Cakes Caffe! They’ve been serving up OC’s favorite brunch for over 20 years, and it’s easy to see why. Their legendary orange ricotta pancakes with warm berry compote are a must-try, and co-owner Paul Taddeo says people just can’t get enough of them. Pair your stack with a hot, fresh coffee, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a delightful morning.
Mozambique · Laguna Beach
Trade ocean waves for jazz waves at Mozambique’s epic Sunday brunch! Every weekend from 10am to 4pm, this Laguna Beach hotspot lets you soak up the sunshine (and smooth tunes). Feeling adventurous? Snag a spot on the rooftop for panoramic ocean views that’ll blow your mind. Fuel your fun with the legendary Breakfast Tower, a mountain of crabmeat, crispy tomato, spinach, and melty cheese drizzled with a creamy cilantro lime aioli.
Avila’s El Ranchito · Corona del Mar, Costa Mesa, Foothill Ranch, Huntington Beach, Lake Forest, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Newport Beach, Orange, Santa Ana, San Clemente, Seal Beach
Forget fancy brunches; Avila’s El Ranchito throws down the tastiest, most satisfying one in town! Start things off with the legendary “Jefe Bloody Mary” – a spicy kick to begin your day. Then, dive into the hearty goodness of huevos rancheros, fluffy scrambled eggs in tortillas, or indulge in cheesy goodness with their signature scrambled adobo. Craving something more soulful? Mama Avila’s menudo is simmered to perfection, guaranteed to warm your belly and heart.
Nếp Cafe · Irvine
Hold up! Forget the usual brunch suspects. There’s a hidden gem tucked inside Dave’s Hot Chicken that’ll blow your mind (and your tastebuds). Nếp Cafe serves up seriously delicious Vietnamese-inspired brunch dishes. Think banh mi pâté stacked high with savory goodness, bone marrow pasta that’s rich and creamy, and duck confit porridge. Sweeten things up with mango sticky rice, sip on a marbled coffee for a caffeine kick, or try the egg coffee for a truly unique experience.
Fable & Spirit · Newport Beach
Fable & Spirit is all about elegance and deliciousness, with a killer wine list to boot. Start your day off right with fresh-baked goodies like apple cinnamon beignets or Guinness brown bread. Feeling fancy? Grab some house-smoked salmon or sourdough pancakes. Craving something more savory? Dive into the corned beef hash or a pork belly BLT that’s next-level. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Callebaut chocolate budino (basically a fancy pudding) will blow your mind. Trust us, it’s worth the hype.
Mayfield · San Juan Capistrano
This spot serves up a drool-worthy Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu Wednesday through Sunday, so you can ditch the snooze and fuel your day with deliciousness any day you please. Their shakshuka is legendary – seriously, it’s too good to limit to just weekends. And the rest of the menu is equally amazing, with dishes that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Plus, they’ve got some seriously cool drinks to pair with your meal. Think Empress’ Potion (sounds magical, right?), “Italian Job” (mystery solved – it’s delicious!), or a refreshing golden latte (perfect for a caffeine kick without the jitters).
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens · Newport Beach
Forget the yoga mat — brunch in nature is the new zen! Located inside the gorgeous Roger’s Gardens, Farmhouse serves up a dreamy al fresco brunch every Sunday. Enjoy fluffy seasonal frittatas, decadent French toast, and endless bubbles. Plus, once you’ve fueled up, you can wander the beautiful gardens and maybe even snag a new plant baby to spruce up your home. Win-win!
Outpost Kitchen · Costa Mesa
This Aussie-inspired gem, opened by Jay Lewis in 2015, is a local favorite for a reason. They serve up delicious eats like the Brekkie Toasted Sandwich and Outpost Tacos that’ll tantalize your taste buds. Wash it all down with a fresh juice, smoothie, or one of their specialty cocktails. We’re obsessed with the Butterfly Effect — it’s magical!
Billy’s at the Beach · Newport Beach
It’s time for a tropical brunch escape at Billy’s at the Beach! Soak up island vibes with delicious breakfast classics including steak and eggs, plus Hawaiian specialties that’ll transport you straight to paradise. Choose fluffy banana nut pancakes, the legendary Billy’s Loco Moco (a must-try!), and malasada donuts paired with a steaming cup of coffee. Feeling fancy? Sip on a Billy’s World Famous Mai Tai, a Billy’s Boat drink, or a refreshing Naked Coconut for the ultimate island experience.
RAYA · Dana Point
Ocean views for days and Latin flavors that’ll have your tastebuds doing a salsa? Sign us up for brunch at RAYA inside The Ritz-Carlton! Every Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm, Chef Richard Sandoval takes you on a culinary adventure through Latin America, all served up a la carte. Think fresh ceviche, fluffy omelets, decadent chalupas, and churros so good you’ll need two hands.
Pacific Hideaway · Huntington Beach
Pacific Hideaway inside the Shorebreak Hotel is where it’s at for brunch! This scratch kitchen (fancy way of saying they make everything fresh) whips up delicious cocktails (try the tropical Smorgasbord or the strong Rise and Shine) and a brunch menu that’s like a world tour on a plate. Whether you’re feeling healthy with smoked salmon and avocado toast or craving something sweet like buttermilk pancakes or bread pudding French toast, they’ve got you covered.
Craft House · Dana Point
This neighborhood favorite is all about fresh, sustainable eats — and they’ve got a killer whiskey selection to boot. Relax on their sunny patio with a craft cocktail in hand; “Kate’s Old Fashioned” is a guaranteed win. Then, dive into their drool-worthy brunch menu. Try the Cajun croque madame, fluffy biscuits and gravy, or the classic fried chicken and waffles.
Ramos House · San Juan Capistrano
Mission explored, stomach rumbling? Take a two-minute stroll down the street to Ramos House for a brunch that’ll blow your mind. This historic cafe is all cozy vibes and modern flavors, like a time machine serving up deliciousness. The huevos rancheros will make you say “holy guacamole!” and the crab hash is like a party in your mouth. Just remember, these portions are Southern-style, so come hungry and ready to indulge!
Love these OC brunch specials? These spots are just a glimpse of life here. Thinking of moving or buying in Orange County? Let’s talk. At Surterre Properties, we match you with your ideal residence. Visit SurterreProperties.com today — let’s find your next dream home.